Govt calls on private sector to boost clean cooking energy

THE government has called on the private sector to actively engage in the implementation of the national strategy for clean cooking energy, describing it as a critical step in conserving forests and protecting the environment.

The Vice-President’s Office Permanent Secretary, Eng Cyprian Luhemeja, emphasised during the ongoing Sabasaba the urgency of transitioning to clean cooking solutions.

“The destruction of our environment is largely driven by the use of charcoal and firewood. If we do not act now, regions like Morogoro could soon be unable to produce food due to lack of rain and water,” Eng Luhemeja warned.

He said environmental destruction, largely driven by the use of charcoal and firewood, continues to threaten food production in regions like Morogoro due to decreased rainfall and water shortages. He recalled that just three years ago, Dar es Salaam experienced a severe water shortage as rivers dried up from insufficient rainfall. People were forced to buy a single bucket of water for up to 5,000/- and even then, water was difficult to find.

“These are challenges we must take seriously. We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children and grandchildren. This is a shared responsibility,” he said.

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Luhemeja said that the successful implementation of the strategy requires joint efforts from all stakeholders, the private sector, civil society, development partners and community leaders. The Tanzania Trade Development Authority (Tantrade) officer Ms Lulu Mkudde who represented the Director General Ms Latifa Khamis, highlighted the role of environmental sustainability in economic progress.

“We acknowledge the government’s environmental efforts, which is why we dedicated this day to the environment. It’s the engine of current and future development, offering countless opportunities for business,” Ms Mkudde said.

She said that preserving the environment is vital for present and future development as it supports a range of opportunities for the business community. The ongoing impacts of climate change around the world have created a sense of urgency, driving innovation and technological advancement.

New opportunities are emerging in areas such as organic and carbon-based agriculture, eco-tourism, environmentally friendly product manufacturing, sanitation technologies and environmental consulting and training. Puma Energy representative, Mr Benedict Ndunguru, said that the company is actively engaged in efforts to reduce the reliance on firewood for cooking.

He emphasised the significant health and environmental benefits of clean cooking energy, particularly in improving the well-being of women and families.

“We are committed to work with all stakeholders to promote clean cooking energy and reduce health risks caused by smoke especially for women and children,” he said. The environment and clean cooking energy day was part of broader efforts to raise public awareness and foster collaboration in building a greener, more sustainable Tanzania.